Skipper Simon Hole scored a century to help Division 2 West newcomers Shipton-under-Wychwood to preserve their unbeaten record in the Serious Cricket Home Counties Premier League at home to Gerrards Cross on Saturday.

Victory was out of the questioon after the visitors rattled up a massive 312-8 from their 60 overs after choosing to bat first.

But Hole scored an unbeaten 104 to guide his side to a draw, without alarm, at 225-6 from their 50 overs in reply.

A fine spell of seam-bowling by Ryan Newhook helped reduce Cross to 67-3, but a fourth-wicket stand of 157 between Paul Muchall and Jack Kilgannon turned the innings around.

Muchall, brother of Durham stalwart Gordon, finished with 115 not out, made off 131 balls with 12 fours and a six.

By going on to reach 300, Cross ruled out the possibility of defeat, but also reduced their own chances of victory.

Newhook, with a flurry of wickets late on, finished with 5-56 from 17 overs.

Shipton lost two early wickets in reply.

But Hole found a reliable partner in Steve Bates and they added 92 for the third wicket.

Left-arm spinner Vikram Bannerjee caused some concern in the Shipton camp by taking three quick wickets.

However, Hole stayed until the end, his unbeaten 104 coming off 127 balls with 15 fours and one six.